Head of Methodology

Bringing innovative ideas to this senior executive role, you will drive a step change in the quality of statistics that will shape the nation’s future. As Head of Methodology, you will be integral to improving the accessibility and usefulness of statistical data to the wider public. We will look to you to put innovation at the heart of our methodology and research.

As the leading provider of official statistics, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) plays a unique part in informing national debate and improving decision-making across the UK. Our statistics are designed to support a wider public good in government, industry and across third sectors.

In the pivotal post of Head of Methodology you will be critical in maintaining, developing and improving the quality of statistics. As we refresh our technical infrastructure, drive a digital transformation and embrace agile ways of working, you’ll help us to develop our responsive and proactive capacity. Your mission will be to put innovation at the core of official statistics, and to help ONS to become a more active ‘data facilitator’. Transforming both our methodologies and those of the Government Statistical Service, you’ll enable us to make the best use of diverse data sources.

Developing new methodologies and new ways of analysing data, you will see that we can better identify emerging trends and patterns. Advising on complex new statistical processes and introducing world-leading methods, you’ll champion better use of big, administrative and commercial data. Ultimately, you will enable us to deliver more frequent outputs, at higher levels of granularity. As a result, we will become better than ever at helping our users to navigate the complexities of the modern world. The nation will benefit from better, well informed decisions.

A highly skilled and experienced leader with a track record at a senior level, you have what it takes to set a fresh strategic direction and motivate staff to deliver. You will bring to the role skills spanning not just statistics, but also mathematics, science and economics. Naturally, it is your insight into statistical methodologies and data analysis that really sets you apart. Crucially, your flair for innovation is more than matched by your capacity to implement successful changes.

In return you will enjoy excellent Civil Service benefits including pension, generous holiday allowance, and flexible family-friendly working options. You will also benefit from our commitment to support your ongoing development.